“The San Francisco 49ers inspire children to learn science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) through their innovative educational programming that engages the whole child. We are thankful that they shared the 49ers Museum with NAGC and parents; it was the perfect backdrop for inspiration and innovation,” said M. René Islas. “Our goal with Family Day is to build community and a support network for parents and caregivers of gifted children. From leaders in the field—Jonathan Plucker, Angela and Brian Housand, and Jim Delisle—families gained invaluable insight and knowledge while their children experienced an exciting approach to STEAM learning.”

The 49ers STEAM Education Program opened in conjunction with Levi’s Stadium in 2014. The program provides K–8 learning platforms that teach content-rich lessons in the STEAM disciplines and engage the full range of learning domains: physical, affective, and intellectual.

“At the outset, we asked ourselves how we could help make STEAM more meaningful, relevant, and approachable to young students,” Jesse Lovejoy, Director of STEAM Education and the 49ers Museum. “We found that the best approach was to create a STEAM learning platform that was unconventional in its pedagogy, atmosphere, programming, and reach.”

“I’m most proud of the fact that we’ve been able to offer the 49ers STEAM Education Program experience to more than 160,000 participants at no cost to the kids or their schools, effectively covering transportation, admission, and supplies,” said Lovejoy.

“The California Association for the Gifted is an organization of parents, educators, and community members who strive to improve education for individuals who demonstrate giftedness or gifted potential,” said Ann Smith, CAG president. “The organization disseminates information, encourages advocacy and awareness, and sponsors activities significant to gifted education. We are honored to be partnering with our national affiliate, NAGC, and the San Francisco 49ers Museum for this wonderful family event in the Silicon Valley.”

The National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) is a membership organization whose mission is to support those who enhance the growth and development of gifted and talented children through education, advocacy, community building, and research.